Ampol switches on grid-responsive EV charging in Australia
Developed with network operator Ausgrid, the first of two highway sites can draw extra power when the grid allows, avoiding costly upgrades while offering drive-through bays for larger vehicles.
Ampol has launched AmpCharge electric vehicle (EV) charging at its Ampol Foodary M1 Wyong Northbound service station, on Australia’s busiest inter-capital highway, using a dynamic connection developed with network operator Ausgrid. The model allows the site to draw considerably more power than a conventional connection, without fixed network upgrade works. The Southbound site is due to open later this month.
Kwetta’s charging technology is linked directly to Ausgrid’s network, enabling each site to adjust its charging capacity to network demand in near real time. Each location has 500 kVA of dedicated capacity and can access up to an additional 750 kVA when conditions allow. The two sites can also share capacity during certain outage scenarios.
Both stations feature eight charging bays, including two drive-through bays designed for larger commercial vehicles and EVs towing caravans or trailers. The chargers can deliver up to 200 kW, depending on vehicle capability, site demand and network conditions.
“With the opening of Southbound to follow later this month, this project will deliver a stronger and more resilient charging experience in both directions of the M1,” said Brent Merrick, Executive General Manager, Commercial Fuels and Energy at Ampol.
“By working closely together, Ausgrid and Ampol have developed a faster and cheaper solution through this dynamic connection, to support EV charging infrastructure,” added Adam Baxter, Head of Customer Network Solutions at Ausgrid.
Kwetta’s infrastructure is also used at 13 public sites on the Z Energy network in New Zealand, which is owned by Ampol.
